Foods for Healthy Weight Gain

Ask the Nutritionist

Q: I'm 15 years old and about 5 feet, 8 inches. I weigh about 97 lbs. I'm tall for my age and I'm also very skinny. I don't feel comfortable with myself and I feel really awkward when I'm around other girls. I would like a diet plan to gain weight healthily.

A: There are a number of reasons why people experience changes in metabolism or problems with weight gain. It's common during cancer treatment or adolescence and at times of growth and development. And it can be frustrating when you have trouble maintaining a healthy weight. If you're a cancer patient, it's crucial that you eat enough calories to prevent weight loss during treatment, to promote a fast recovery, and to fuel growth and development. Patients can accomplish this by eating calorie-dense and nutrient-rich foods.

Here are some healthy foods you can eat to increase calories and gain weight:

Trail mix or granola bars, or dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins, are a calorie-dense option that can be eaten as a snack or added to cereals and yogurts. (1/4 cup serving/bar = 120 calories)

Eggs can make a simple meal. Add chopped hardboiled eggs to salads, dressings, and casseroles, or beat eggs into sauces, custards, and baked goods. (1 large egg = 90 calories)

Olive and canola oil can be mixed into sauces, used as salad dressing, and added to yogurt frappes or smoothies as a great calorie boost that contains essential fatty acids that your body needs. You can also use oil to cook when stir-frying vegetables. (1 tbsp = 120 calories)

Try adding beans to soups, salads, or entrees.

Spread peanut butter on whole grain bread or eat it with bananas or apples for a healthy snack (2 tablespoons = 190 calories)

Free Nutrition App

Download Dana-Farber's free Ask the Nutritionist: Recipes for Fighting Cancer app that provides recipes and nutrition information that can be searched by cancer patients and others in accordance with their needs.